Thomas played in 10 games for the Patriots including earning his first career start in a Dec. 24 win over Miami. However, Gallery was signed by New England with the expectation that he could add depth at guard.

The reports are that Thomas was having a strong camp so even before Gallery's surprising decision, Thomas has put himself in position to earn a spot with the Patriots. With Brian Waters' status unknown and Logan Mankins recovering from an offseason knee injury, Thomas has had the opportunity to take snaps as a starter.

As hard as it it to believe, the NFL preseason schedule kicks off tomorrow when the Arizona Cardinals face the New Orleans Saints. Each team has a former UConn player on the roster as Anthony Sherman is a fullback with Arizona and Lawrence Wilson is a linebacker with New Orleans. The game will air on the NFL Network beginning at 8 p.m.